Drip... drip... drip... When you're performing on stage or hosting an event indoors, you don't expect it to be gently raining down on you. However, in Alida Memorial Hall this had become an issue. As snow accumulated on the roof last year, it would blow into a damaged area and while sitting there would melt from the heat of the hall.
Each year the drama group, Act One Productions, holds an event and in March of 2012 the distracting drip of melting snow inside the hall spurred the group to donate $10,000 towards repairs. They have been hosting their production in the hall for a number of years and didn't want to see damages worsen, so although they had donated to the Alida Recreation Board each year last year they specifically requested the funds go towards the roof.
"The drama group gave $10,000," Lynette Peet explained. "It was Act One Productions' way to get the ball rolling."
The hall was first built in 1949, while the hardwood floors were installed in 1952. An addition to the hall as well as renovations were completed in 1994. And now the building has undergone additional maintenance through the month of October, recently finishing last week.
This was then followed by a letter sent out to the community asking for assistance to save the hall that is integral in the small town for a place to host: "weekly bingo games, drama productions, weddings, funerals, trade shows, showers, anniversaries, dances, exercise classes, concerts, and catered suppers," Peet listed.
In small towns it is these multi-use buildings which are integral in maintaining a healthy community atmosphere within the town as the events held there bring people together.
The community letter which was sent out resulted in over $35,000 being given to the project, including a dinner and comedy show held by the Alida Lions Club as a fundraiser.
In addition to this the Alida Memorial Hall Roof Project was given $20,000 in funding by the Community Initiative Fund (CIF) this year to help offset costs.
CIF aids communities each year in completing projects. For the year of 2013, the Alida Memorial Hall Roof Project was one of the 68 applications out of 171 to be awarded the small capital grant.
On Dec. 7 the Alida Rec. Board will continue to raise funds as the cost of the entire project is estimated to be approximately $70,000. Thus, the board is still in need of nearly $15,000 before they are completely finished with the project.
The event will consist of cocktails at 5 p.m., supper at 6 p.m., and entertainment to follow.
Tim Koslo, a comedian from Edmonton, will be travelling to Alida to put on the show. Koslo has performed at numerous shows across Canada and has found great success in the comedic world.
Tickets for the event are $35 and are available at Centre Street Grocers if interested. There are only 20 tickets left, so get yours today.
